RIBA Calls for Greater Flexibility on Zero Carbon Definitions

The Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) has called upon the Government to implement a more flexible definition of zero carbon to enable the construction industry to deliver low carbon buildings of the future.

Responding to the Definition of Zero Carbon Homes and Non-Domestic Buildings consultation (launched at the end of 2008), the Institute has called for a reclassification of district power and heating schemes, alongside a national energy trajectory to underpin future efforts to achieve 80% zero carbon by 2050.

This would plot the UK's route to decarbonising our energy supply, helping to address what constraints and opportunities exist in applying different clean energy technologies, and providing a roadmap and thereby increased certainty to local decision makers, the construction industry and its clients.

The RIBA has also proposed a reclassification of biomass and district heating systems through building regulations, in future to be considered measures of energy efficiency in buildings, rather than energy generation.

The RIBA believes that reclassifying allowable renewables as only 'on site' would simplify the planning process.

This could be easily overseen by the planning authority based on an objective assessment of available roof area, development density and orientation.

The RIBA is proposing the planning process is simplified to ensure that all developments are future-proofed to accommodate renewables when they become viable.